Sunday, May 30, 2010

How to be a Recessionista...

The hardest part about being a fashionista is having the limitless budget. Luckily for us, there are a few websites that can help us stay stylish. Three of my favorites are Gilt Groupe, Ideeli and Avelle. All three require "membership;" you can either request to be members on the site (although it may take a few days) or you can have someone who is already a member send you an invitation. The best part is that all three are free to join!

Gilt, which offers up to 70% off of designer brands, includes women's, men's, children's, and home. These week's designers include BCBGMAXAZRIA, Oscar de la Renta, and Zac Posen. Gilt members also have access to Jetsetter, works the same as Gilt but is for exclusive luxury hotels and cruises around the world at discount prices. Ideeli is similar to Gilt, offering up to 80% off of fashion, home and beauty products, but is usually a little less expensive. This week's designers include Michael Kors, faryl robin, and Calvin Klein. Both Gilt's and Ideeli's sales run for at least 36 hours.

Avelle (formerly Bag, Borrow, or Steal, Inc.) was featured in the first Sex & the City movie and is a genius concept. Members can rent designer handbags, accessories, jewelry, etc. by the week, month, or season (3 months). This is great for those of us who love high-end designers but don't really want to drop $1500 on a bag that we'll be sick of after a season. Avelle is also handy for weddings and events where you'll only wear something once. Designers include Chanel (number one reason why I love this site!), Kenneth Jay Lane, Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, and Judith Leiber.

Check these websites out and just leave a comment (you don't need a blogger account) with your email if you'd like an invite to any of these sites!